What are Some Causes of Diarrhea in a German Shepherd?
Diarrhea in a dog is often his body's way of ridding itself of a toxin that was acquired through his normal diet, through scavenging or even through a virus. Diarrhea often resolves itself in a few days, but more severe cases may warrant a trip to the veterinarian.
Bowel Obstructions
Diarrhea in conjunction with vomiting may be a sign of a bowel obstruction. Only a veterinarian can tell for sure and give proper treatment.
Sea Water
Be careful at the beach; drinking sea water is a common cause of diarrhea in dogs. German shepherds are playful and inquisitive and may try to taste the water.
Change in Diet
A sudden change in your German shepherd's diet can cause diarrhea. If you are changing foods, do so by adding the new food slowly to your dog's diet over a few days so that she can adjust to the new food.
Viruses
Just as in a human, a viral infection can cause diarrhea in a German shepherd. This usually resolves itself over a few days.
Parasites
Diarrhea can also be caused by internal parasites such as giardia, coccidia and roundworms.
More Serious Conditions
In rarer cases diarrhea in a German shepherd may be caused by more serious conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, cancer, liver disease or hemmorhagic gastroenteritis.
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